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The Gas Tax Is Running Low. But What Should Replace It?

Almost everyone agrees that there has to be a better way. The question is how to get there.

By

Michael Totty

September 17, 2012

The gasoline tax is running on fumes.

For decades, the excise tax on gasoline and diesel fuel has been the main source of funds for building and maintaining the nation's roadways. It has paid for most of the four million road miles currently in service.

But now there is agreement across the political spectrum that the gas tax is broken and needs to be replaced, or at least overhauled. The problem is twofold: First, the tax...